Ending a business contract can be tricky, but most would agree that clearly communicating intentions is key.
This article will provide a detailed guide to professionally terminating a contract, including 3 contract termination sample letters and analysis to ensure compliance and minimize legal risks.
You'll learn best practices for reviewing signed terms, evaluating impacts, drafting termination notices, and finalizing dissolution to effectively end contractual obligations.
Introduction to Contract Termination
Contract termination refers to the formal dissolution of a business agreement or relationship. This guide will provide an overview of the contract termination process and the role of official business letters in formalizing the end of a signed contract.
Understanding Contract Termination
Contract termination occurs when one or both parties decide to end a business agreement that was previously entered into with a signed contract. Reasons for termination may include:
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A breach of contract terms by one or both parties
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The natural expiration of the contract term
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A decision that the business relationship is no longer mutually beneficial
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Significant changes in business conditions that alter the original intent or viability of the contract
Regardless of the specific reason, proper contract termination requires formally notifying the other party in writing.
The Role of Official Contract Termination Letters
An official business letter serves to formally communicate the intent to terminate the existing contract. The letter outlines the reasoning, terms, and timeline for dissolution.
Key elements of a contract termination letter include:
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Formal business letter format on company letterhead
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Direct statement of intent to terminate
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Reference to the original signed contract
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Explanation of reasoning for termination
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Clear termination date
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Signatures of authorized company representatives
A properly formatted contract termination letter to end contract of service provides legal documentation of the severed business relationship. This formal communication ensures both parties clearly understand the status of the contract after the outlined termination date.
How do you write a formal letter of termination of contract?
A contract termination letter to end contract of service should include the following key elements:
Your Contact Information
Include your name, position, company name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the letter. This identifies you as the sender.
Date
The current date indicates when the letter was written.
Recipient's Contact Information
List the name, position, company name, and address of the person and/or company with whom you have the contract. This identifies the recipient.
Subject Line
Clearly state that the letter concerns “Termination of Contract” and include the contract number or title.
Termination Date
Specify the exact date when the contract will officially end.
Reason for Termination
Briefly explain why you are choosing to terminate the contract. You can cite the relevant contractual clause that allows termination.
Notice Period
If required by the contract, state the notice period that you will provide before the termination date.
Outstanding Issues
Address any outstanding financial matters, transfer of assets, or other loose ends. State how and when these will be resolved.
Closing
Politely close the contract termination letter to end contract of service by thanking the recipient for their prior business and stating that you are available to discuss if needed. Sign the letter with your full name and position.
The contract termination letter to end contract of service should use formal business letter formatting and be written clearly and professionally. Maintaining positive relations can allow room for future partnerships.
How detailed should a contract termination letter be?
The contract termination letter should be professional and concise. Here are some key elements to include:
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Date of termination: State the employee's exact last day of employment.
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Transition plan: Provide details on handovers, return of company property, final paycheck, etc.
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Contact information: List who the employee can contact with any questions, like an HR representative.
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Expression of thanks (optional): If appropriate, include a short statement thanking the employee for their contributions.
The contract termination letter should avoid detailing the specific reasons for termination, as the employee likely already knows why they were let go. The focus should be on wrapping up the employment relationship professionally.
Keep the letter short - just 3-5 paragraphs focused on the transition. Use a standard business letter format and professional font. Following these termination letter best practices helps dissolve the business relationship smoothly.
What is an example of a contractor termination letter?
Dear [Independent Contractor's Name],
I regret to inform you that the services you have been providing to [Company Name] will no longer be required as of [Termination Date]. This decision has been made due to [Reason for Termination], which has been a cause of concern for us.
[Insert Date]
An example contractor termination letter could look like this:
Dear Jane,
I am writing to inform you that your services as an independent contractor with ABC Company will no longer be required effective June 1, 2023. This decision has been made due to repeated failures to meet project deadlines and quality standards expected of contractors working with ABC Company.
As outlined in our independent contractor agreement signed on January 1, 2022, either party can terminate the contract with 30 days written notice. This letter constitutes as official notice of contract termination.
Thank you for your work and cooperation during your time with ABC Company. We wish you the best in your future professional endeavors.
Regards,
John Smith
CEO, ABC Company
This example provides key details like:
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Reason for Termination: Repeated failures to meet expectations around deadlines and quality standards
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Official Notice: Clear statement that this letter serves as notice of contract termination
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Termination Date: June 1, 2023 allows 30 days from date of letter based on agreement terms
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Contact Details: Names and titles of sender/recipient
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Formal Tone: Professional, formal language used
The letter directly addresses the termination while referencing the original contract agreement. It maintains a formal, professional tone while clearly communicating the termination details.
Using this sample letter as a guide, you can craft an official contractor termination letter tailored to your specific situation. Be sure to check any existing contractual agreements for notice period requirements and procedures.
What is the template for cancelling a contract?
Dear [recipient name],
I am writing to respectfully inform you that as of [contract termination date], [your company] no longer requires [recipient company]'s services. With this letter, [your company] provides the minimum notice specified in our agreement.
[Insert date of contract termination here, such as "Oct 23, 2022"]
When cancelling a contract, it is important to follow these key steps:
Notify the Other Party in Writing
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Send a formal letter or email notifying them of the cancellation. Make sure it is addressed to the correct person.
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State clearly that you wish to cancel the contract under its existing terms. Specify the exact date the cancellation will take effect.
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Indicate the notice period you are providing meets the minimum required by the contract.
Include All Relevant Details
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Reference the title and date of the original contract in your letter.
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Note any account numbers, order numbers, or other identifiers associated with the contract.
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List what goods/services will no longer be provided after the termination date.
Save Records of the Notification
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Print and file the letter/email for your records, along with any delivery confirmation receipts.
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Log the date notification was sent and received.
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Follow up with the contractor if you do not receive confirmation within a reasonable timeframe.
Following these steps helps ensure proper documentation of the contract cancellation and avoids potential disputes over incorrect or inadequate termination notices. Let me know if you need any other details for your contract cancellation letter template.
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Preparing for Contract Termination
Reviewing the Signed Contract Terms
It is crucial to thoroughly review the signed contract to understand the termination terms and conditions. This includes:
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Identifying any termination clauses, notice periods, or other stipulations
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Understanding obligations that survive termination, like confidentiality, non-compete, payments, etc.
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Reviewing any penalties, fees, or payments triggered by termination
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Confirming termination protocols and processes outlined in the contract
Carefully studying the agreement ensures full compliance and mitigates legal risks when terminating.
Evaluating the Impact of Termination
Before terminating a contractor contract, assess how it will impact your business by:
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Analyzing financial, operational, and workforce ramifications
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Identifying activities, services, products affected by termination
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Understanding transitions required for existing projects/initiatives
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Evaluating alternatives to replace goods/services received under the contract
This evaluation allows for informed decision-making and continuity planning.
Legal Considerations and Compliance
Comply with laws and regulations when terminating contracts by:
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Providing adequate and reasonable termination notice to the contractor
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Adhering to anti-discrimination, employment, privacy regulations
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Avoiding unfair/unethical termination reasons prohibited by law
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Paying outstanding dues, fees owed under the contract
Seeking legal counsel ensures lawful contract dissolution.
Communicating Intentions Internally
Internally communicate contract termination plans to:
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Notify leadership and secure alignment/approvals
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Brief affected departments on termination implications
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Develop transition plans with stakeholders
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Train staff on revised protocols post-termination
Internal alignment enables smooth termination and continuity.
Drafting the Contract Termination Letter
Business Letter Format Essentials
The business letter format provides a professional structure for contract termination notices. Key elements include:
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Sender's address and date in the top left corner
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Recipient's full address below the sender's address
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Formal salutation (e.g. Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name])
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1-inch margins on all four sides
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Clear, concise paragraphs with line spacing between each
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Professional font (e.g. Arial, Times New Roman) 12pt size
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Closing salutation and signature.
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Printed on company letterhead (if available)
This format ensures the termination letter represents the business professionally.
Choosing the Standard Letter Font and Style
When drafting a contract termination notice, use a standard, clear font to ensure readability and professionalism. Recommended options include:
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Arial - Simple, easy to read at 12pt size
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Times New Roman - Classic and formal style, 12pt size
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Calibri - Modern and accessible, 11pt size
Use black ink and maintain uniform styling throughout the letter. Bold, italics, or underlines should be avoided unless emphasizing specific text. The formal tone established by the standard font promotes proper business communication.
Clearly Stating the Termination Reason
The contract termination letter must clearly outline the reason(s) for ending the business relationship or dissolving an existing contract. To maintain clarity and respect, avoid ambiguous language and state the facts directly.
Provide specific examples or evidence to support the termination where applicable. Articulate if the decision is final or if an opportunity exists to remedy breaches and re-establish the contractual obligations moving forward. Above all else, maintain a professional tone regardless of any interpersonal dynamics involved.
Setting the Termination Date and Obligations
The letter should explicitly state the effective date when the contractual relationship will officially terminate. This provides clear expectations to both parties on when the terms of the contract will end.
Additionally, specify any outstanding payments, services, products or other obligations that must still be fulfilled by either party prior to the termination date. This prevents confusion around responsibilities and ensures proper closure.
Finalizing the Termination Notice
Before sending the contract termination letter, carefully proofread its content and formatting. Verify all details are accurate and that each element adheres to standard business letter conventions.
Review the language used and ensure the tone is professional despite the nature of the termination. With attention to detail applied, the letter can be finalized and delivered to formally end the contractual agreement or business relationship.
Contract Termination Letter Sample and Analysis
Annotated Sample Letter Introduction
Here is an introduction to a sample contract termination letter:
Dear [Client Name],
Pursuant to Section [X] of our agreement dated [Date], this letter serves as formal notification that [Your Company Name] is electing to terminate our business relationship effective [Date 30-60 Days From Now].
This first paragraph clearly states the intent to terminate the contract on a specific future date, typically 30-60 days out. It also references the specific section of the signed contract that allows for termination. Using the formal name of each party establishes an official, professional tone.
Detailed Body Content Explanation
The main body of the letter further explains the reasons for termination and key details around the dissolution of the business relationship:
As discussed in our recent conversations, [summarize reasons and issues leading to termination]. While our partnership has been productive, we feel this decision is necessary at this juncture.
To aid the transition process, we will provide reasonable assistance requested regarding outstanding projects and deliverables. Please let us know any specifics you require from our team during this period. We aim to make this as smooth as possible.
Following the termination date, any confidential materials will be returned or destroyed as directed in our agreement. We will also coordinate with your team on things such as the transfer of domains, data, and other assets as applicable. Please advise your primary point of contact for working through these details.
The tone remains formal and references previous discussions where appropriate. Actionable next steps around the transition process are clearly laid out along with expectations around confidentiality and asset/data transfers. Being solutions-oriented makes termination simpler for both parties.
Conclusion of the Sample Letter
The conclusion wraps up the intent and offers to address any questions:
We appreciate the opportunity to work with [Client Name] and wish your organization the very best going forward. Please let us know if any questions arise during this transition stage. We will handle this termination process professionally and aim to preserve any goodwill between our companies.
Ending on a gracious note maintains professionalism and preserves the possibility of future partnerships. It also reassures the recipient that the process will be handled responsibly.
Executing the Contract Termination
Sending the Termination Letter
It is best practice to send the termination letter via certified mail with return receipt requested. This ensures there is a record of sending the letter and confirmation that it was received. Email or fax can also be used to deliver the letter, but the return receipt from certified mail provides legal proof that the notice was delivered. Be sure to retain copies of the letter and all delivery confirmations.
Confirming Receipt and Understanding
Follow up with the other party after a reasonable time to confirm they received the termination letter and understand that the contractual relationship will end on the termination date stated. This helps prevent any surprises or confusion. Document any verbal or written confirmation of receipt and understanding. If issues arise, seek legal counsel.
Handling Follow-up Communications
Expect to engage in discussions with the other party regarding the termination. Be direct yet diplomatic. Refer to the termination letter as needed to reinforce the intent to end the contractual relationship. Seek common ground where possible but remain firm on the termination taking effect as scheduled. Document all significant conversations and agreements.
Documenting the Termination Process
Keep detailed records of the termination process, including:
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The termination letter and confirmation of delivery
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Any verbal or written communications about the termination
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Agreements made during the termination discussions
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Confirmation when the contract officially terminated
Thorough documentation provides a paper trail in case any disputes arise later.
5 Templates for Ending a Contract of Service
1. Formal and Detailed Termination Letter
Subject: Termination of Service Contract - [Service Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Service Provider’s Name]
[Service Provider’s Title]
[Service Provider’s Company]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Service Provider’s Name],
I am writing to formally notify you that [Your Company] is terminating the service contract with [Service Provider’s Company] for [Service Name], effective [Termination Date].
Reasons for Termination:
Service Quality: Despite previous discussions and attempts to resolve the issues, the quality of service provided has not met the standards outlined in our agreement.
Contract Violations: Specific terms and conditions stipulated in the contract have not been adhered to, including but not limited to [list specific violations].
Performance: There has been a consistent failure to achieve the performance metrics and deliverables as agreed upon in the contract.
Next Steps:
Final Deliverables: Please ensure that all pending deliverables and services are completed and submitted by [Date].
Return of Property: All company property, including [list items], should be returned by [Date].
Final Invoice: Submit the final invoice for any outstanding payments by [Date], ensuring all work is itemized.
Post-Termination Obligations:
Confidentiality: As per our agreement, all confidential information must remain protected and should not be disclosed or used for any purpose outside the scope of the agreement.
Non-Compete Clause: The non-compete clause, if applicable, will remain in effect as per the terms outlined in our contract.
Conclusion:
We appreciate the services provided by [Service Provider’s Company] and regret that the circumstances have led to this decision. We hope to possibly collaborate again in the future under different conditions.
Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
2. Friendly but Professional Termination Letter
Subject: Notice of Termination of Service Contract
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Service Provider’s Name]
[Service Provider’s Title]
[Service Provider’s Company]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Service Provider’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. After careful consideration, we have decided to terminate our service contract with [Service Provider’s Company], effective [Termination Date].
Key Reasons for Termination:
Alignment with Business Needs: Our business needs and priorities have shifted, and we are moving in a different direction that requires us to re-evaluate our current partnerships.
Service Expectations: Despite our efforts to address various issues, there has been a consistent gap between the service levels promised and those delivered.
Actions to Complete:
Final Services: Please complete all outstanding work by [Date].
Return of Materials: Ensure all company materials, such as [list items], are returned by [Date].
Final Billing: Send the final invoice for any remaining balances by [Date].
Ongoing Responsibilities:
Confidential Information: Any confidential information must be handled as per the terms of our agreement, ensuring it remains protected.
Data Transition: Please facilitate the smooth transition of any data or materials relevant to our operations by [Date].
We value the relationship we have built and appreciate the efforts you and your team have put in over the course of our partnership. We wish [Service Provider’s Company] all the best in future endeavors.
If you have any questions or need further details, please feel free to reach out.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
3. Comprehensive Termination Letter with Emphasis on Compliance
Subject: Termination of Service Contract - Immediate Attention Required
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
[Service Provider’s Name]
[Service Provider’s Title]
[Service Provider’s Company]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Dear [Service Provider’s Name],
This letter serves as formal notice of termination of our service contract with [Service Provider’s Company] for [Service Name], effective as of [Termination Date]. This decision follows a thorough review of the service performance and compliance with contract terms.
Grounds for Termination:
Non-Compliance: Several terms of the contract, including [specify terms], have not been met, despite multiple reminders and attempts to rectify the situation.
Service Delivery Issues: Persistent issues with service delivery have significantly impacted our operations, necessitating this termination.
Strategic Realignment: Our current strategic goals require a realignment of our service partnerships.
Immediate Requirements:
Completion of Services: Ensure all pending tasks and deliverables are completed by [Date].
Property Return: All company property, including [list items], should be returned by [Date].
Final Invoice Submission: Submit the final invoice detailing any outstanding charges by [Date].
Post-Termination Compliance:
Data Handling: All data and confidential information should be securely transferred and any copies permanently deleted.
Ongoing Obligations: The confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements will continue to be in effect as stipulated in our original contract.
Exit Interview: We request a final meeting to discuss the transition and any unresolved matters. Please schedule this meeting by [Date].
We acknowledge the efforts of your team and appreciate the work done during our collaboration. However, we must move forward with this termination to align better with our business needs.
For any further information or clarification, please contact me directly.
Thank you for your understanding.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Company]
4. Polite Contract Termination
Subject: Termination of Service Contract
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing to formally notify you that we will be terminating our service contract with [Service Provider's Name] effective [Termination Date]. This decision has been made after careful consideration and aligns with our current business needs.
We have appreciated the services provided by your company and the professional relationship we have maintained. We will ensure that all outstanding payments and obligations are settled by [Final Payment Date].
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. We wish [Service Provider's Name] continued success in all future endeavors.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Company]
[Contact Information]
5. Polite Contract Termination (2)
Subject: Notice of Contract Termination
Dear [Recipient's Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
I am writing to inform you that we have decided to terminate our service contract with [Service Provider's Name], effective [Termination Date]. This decision was reached after careful review and consideration of our current requirements.
We are grateful for the quality of service and professionalism provided by your team throughout our partnership. All pending dues will be cleared by [Final Payment Date] to ensure a smooth and amicable transition.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for the services rendered. We wish your company all the best moving forward.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Company]
[Contact Information]
Conclusion: The Importance of Effective Contract Termination
Summing up, properly terminating a contract is key to preserving professional relationships and legal standing. Following the proper steps shows respect, protects rights, and maintains goodwill on both sides.
Recap of Contract Termination Steps
Briefly, to terminate a contract effectively:
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Review the contract termination clause to understand notification timeline requirements
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Send official written notice by the deadline, specifying termination date
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Fulfill any outstanding duties/payments before termination date
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Get written confirmation once contract obligations end
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Update company records
Final Thoughts on Dissolving Business Relationships
Even when ending a business relationship, it is important to part on good terms. Handling contract termination carefully demonstrates professionalism and integrity. This allows for future collaborations or referrals down the road. With some care and planning, the dissolution of a business contract does not need to damage connections.
